Wildfire

Oklahoma Wildfire Response

Oklahoma residents are experiencing first-hand the devastating effects of wildfires. Some families have lost livestock, homes and outbuildings, while other structures in the path of the flames have been spared.

Below are resources to help Oklahomans better understand fire damage and cope with stress, as well as begin the recovery process post-wildfire.

Evacuating in the event of wildfire

Oklahomans know first-hand the devastation and destruction a wildfire can cause. Families in the path of dangerous blazes often leave or are ordered to evacuate their homes for safety reasons.

Using a fire extinguisher

It only takes a short, few minutes for a spark to grow into a blaze. Knowing when and how to use a fire extinguisher can help save lives and property.

Use zone concept to protect home from wildfires

More than 830,000 acres of land across Oklahoma have burned so far this month due to wildfires. Lives, homes, livestock and crops have been lost in the devastation.

Fire Facts

Facts about wildfire, prescribed fire, fire safety, resources and OSU experts.

Preserving land after a wildfire

Oklahomans continue to be reminded of the devastation that can come with wildfire. While homes, structures and livestock can be lost, landowners who rely on grasslands, shrublands and forests as an enterprise are left trying to figure out how to recover the vegetation and habitat.

It is wise to be firewise

Fire in Oklahoma is extremely beneficial. It restores grasslands and controls unwanted species. It is a natural process that provides habitat for certain wildlife.

Moisture Effects on Wildfire

Moisture content effects wildfires and their probability. It is important to be prepared and stay up to date on wildfire probability.

Emergency evacuation plans must include your pets

Oklahoma once again is in the midst of major wildfires in the western part of the state. Fire has consumed more than 366,000 acres with no end in sight.

Flipping the switch on power outages

Power outages happen, but families do not have to be left in the dark when the lights go out.

Farm Stress - Resources to Improve Your Mental Well-Being

Mental health resources for farmers, their families and their communities to help improve mental well-being.

Mental Health Resources in Counties

Find a list of local resources for mental and behavioral health, substance abuse and addictions, counseling, nonprofit organizations, religious groups, family violence and financial planning.

Paying attention to mental health during wildfire recovery

After losing so much, families affected by the wildfires sweeping across western Oklahoma may be feeling emotionally overwhelmed, which raises the need to pay attention to potential mental health concerns.

Assessing damage outside and inside of homes after a wildfire

Oklahomans affected by a wildfire may be wondering what to look for inside and outside when assessing the damage to their homes.

Composting may be timely solution for disposal of dead livestock and large animals

Wildfires that blazed their way through parts of central and northwestern Oklahoma recently highlight the need to act quickly to dispose of livestock and other large animal carcasses.

Do not forget about post-wildfire trauma in livestock

Adrenaline-fueled panic and confusion may still be affecting livestock even after the flames of recent wildfires have passed, meaning producers need to use caution when working with the animals.

Fire Effects: Fencing

Findings from several studies that investigated the impacts of fire on fencing materials in grasslands.

Follow state-approved methods for burying carcasses of livestock killed by wildfires

Recent wildfires have left some agricultural producers contemplating burial of deceased animals as the most expedient way of disposing of livestock carcasses.

Fire Effects in Native Plant Communities

Most of Oklahoma’s native prairies, shrublands, and forests are out of balance because of fire suppression. Since natural fires no longer happen as frequently, prescribed fire is an ecological driver that can be used to restore ecosystems and landscapes to their historical diversity and productivity.

Disaster Losses and Related Tax Rules

What to do with losses to property, the process used to determine if there is a deductible loss, how insurance proceeds and cost share benefits are treated, and how to reconstruct records to document a loss.

Management After Wildfire

Land management practices that may be used by landowners to implement after experiencing wildfire on their property.

Safe water, food and medicine important after wildfire

After a wildfire, the safety of water and food as well as medications are at the top of the priority list for affected families.

Removing smoke odor following a fire

Many parts of Oklahoma recently experienced devastating wildfires. Some families lost their homes, while other homes and structures in the path of the flames were spared.

Disaster Preparedness & Recovery

Amy Hagerman, OSU Extension ag policy specialist, provides guidance on disaster preparedness and recovery. She covers insurance records, inventory tips, evacuation plans, loss documentation protocols and more.

Handling Livestock after Fire

OSU Extension Veterinarian Barry Whitworth offers advice on handling livestock injured by fire.

Life After Wildfire

SUNUP heads to Woods County, where John Weir shows us how the landscape has transformed since fire ravaged the area one year ago.

Preparing for Extended Drought - Feb. 10, 2022

Paul Beck presents "Can I afford to buy feed to carry calves until pasture is available?" and Dave Lalman presents "Replacement Heifer Nutrition to Optimize Pregnancy Rates" as part of the Rancher's Lunchtime Series.

Preparing for Extended Drought - Feb. 17, 2022

Brian Pugh with Oklahoma State University presents "Considerations for grazing systems with introduced forages" and Laura Goodman with Oklahoma State University present "Considerations for native rangeland grazing systems" as part of the Rancher's Lunchtime Series.

Preserving Land After Wildfire

OSU Fire Ecologist John Weir has some helpful tips for your land after a wildfire.

Spring 2022 Conditions & OSU Extension Wildfire Prevention Tips

John Weir, OSU Extension fire ecologist, assesses Spring 2022 conditions that may fuel wildfires in Oklahoma. He also provides great advice on how to protect your land and property.

Weather, Drought and Soil Moisture

Gary McManus, State Climatologist, presents "Understanding the ENSO Weather Pattern;" Brad Rippey, USDA Meteorologist, discusses "US Drought Monitor and USDA Financial Assistance Programs;" and Wes Lee, Mesonet Ag Coordinator, shares "Using Oklahoma Mesonet Soil Moisture Tools."

Wildfire Preparation Going into Dry Season (Fall/Winter)

Fire Ecologist John Weir has information on how to prepare for a wildfire on your property.

Oklahoma Wildfire Response

Wildfire Preparedness

Wildfire Recovery Resources

Video Resources